Identification of Respiratory Allergens

A variety of chemicals and proteins can sensitize the respiratory tract. Among these are materials of industrial importance, including certain diisocyanates, acid anhydrides, reactive dyes, and enzymes. Currently, no widely accepted or well-validated methods for the prospective identification of respiratory allergens exist. Most progress has been made with guinea pig methods where sensitizing potential is measured usually by assessment of changes in pulmonary function induced following sensitization and challenge. However, these methods are often prohibitively expensive, particularly for screening purposes. A number of alternative approaches are under consideration and are described here. The nature of the health problems associated with occupational respiratory sensitization, chemical structure–activity analyses as a tool for detecting pulmonary allergens, approaches used to test for respiratory allergens in guinea pigs, and alternative approaches using mice are all discussed. Finally, regulatory issues and needs with respect to respiratory sensitization are outlined.